Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
Nothing screams indulgence like a perfectly seared steak topped with a rich, creamy Cajun shrimp sauce. This surf and turf dish combines bold Cajun flavors, juicy steak, and succulent shrimp in a decadent buttery cream sauce. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this dish is a restaurant-quality masterpiece you can easily make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the best of surf and turf in one dish
- Easy to make in under 30 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients with bold Cajun flavors
- Perfect for special occasions or date nights
The Magic of Cajun Cuisine in Surf and Turf
The secret to this dish lies in the balance of flavors. Cajun seasoning, a bold mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, gives the steak and shrimp sauce their signature smoky-spicy taste. If you want to explore other steak variations, check out this delicious recipe for juicy steak with creamy garlic sauce.
Pairing steak with seafood is nothing new, but what sets this dish apart is the luxurious sauce. The combination of butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety, flavorful base. Want to learn more about perfecting your shrimp-cooking technique? Here’s a great guide on how to cook shrimp perfectly every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak:
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or avocado)
- 1 pound steak (ribeye, filet mignon, or strip loin)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
For the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Steak
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak with Cajun seasoning.
- Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes (or until desired doneness).
- Remove from heat and let it rest while preparing the sauce.
2. Make the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add butter to the pan.
- Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
- Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning.
- Bring to a simmer, then mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add lemon juice, parsley, and return the shrimp to the sauce.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Slice the steak and place it on a plate.
- Generously spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the steak.
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve immediately.
Best Side Dishes for Cajun Steak and Shrimp
Pairing this dish with the right sides enhances the experience:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy potatoes balance the spice
- Cajun-style rice – Complements the flavors of the sauce
- Roasted asparagus – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast
Wine Pairings for the Ultimate Surf and Turf Experience
- Full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec
- Buttery white wines like Chardonnay
- Non-alcoholic pairings: Citrus-infused sparkling water
For more insight into choosing the perfect wine, check out this expert guide on pairing wines with steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the steak – Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Over-seasoning – Too much Cajun spice can overpower the dish.
- Rushing the sauce – Simmer it long enough to allow flavors to blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the Best Steak Cut for This Recipe?
Ribeye, filet mignon, and strip loin are the top choices. They have great marbling and tenderness, making them ideal for surf and turf.
2. Can I Substitute Chicken for Steak?
Yes! Chicken breasts or boneless thighs work great with Cajun shrimp sauce.
3. How Do I Make the Sauce Thicker?
- Reduce it longer over low heat.
- Add more Parmesan cheese.
- Stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry if needed.
4. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
Yes! Just ensure your Cajun seasoning is low-carb, and serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
5. Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?
Heavy cream is best for a rich, creamy sauce. However, you can use half-and-half with an added tablespoon of butter for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This steak with creamy Cajun shrimp sauce is a showstopper dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving an indulgent meal, this surf and turf recipe is guaranteed to impress.
🔥 Try it tonight, and let us know how it turns out in the comments!